DEAR DR. GOTT: I used the search function at your Web site but couldn’t find the answer, so I am hoping that you can help me. A while ago, someone wrote about an herb that changes the body chemistry so that mosquitoes stop biting. What is the name of that herb?
DEAR READER: I am sorry to hear that the search results failed to help you. Just to double-check, I looked for the article and didn’t find it. This means that the article has not been entered into my archived database yet because of its age. Putting several years of past columns onto the site is a time-consuming project. However, this does not mean I don’t know the answer.
I believe the product you are looking for is not an herb but rather yeast — brewer’s yeast, to be exact. In the original article to which you are likely referring, a gentleman wrote in about his success using brewer’s yeast to ward off mosquito bites. He went on to say that his child was in veterinary school and was told by a friend that it worked in repelling biting fleas in both pets and humans.
The recommendation was to take one 7.5-grain (about 486 milligrams) tablet daily. Brewer’s yeast is also a good source of several B vitamins, so there is no harm in taking it year-round. Speak to your physician prior to starting the regimen, especially if you are on medication (prescription or over-the-counter), herbals or have a medical condition that may prevent you from safely consuming the product.
Other readers have had success consuming garlic or garlic pills (not the odorless type) daily. If you don’t want to ingest something but want to be outside, try putting a plate of lemon-scented dish detergent in the area where you will be. The mosquitoes should be more attracted to the detergent than to you. If these recommendations don’t work, there is always the standby of topical bug sprays, which should be reapplied often whenever you are outside.
To provide related information, I am sending you copies of my Health Reports “Dr. Gott’s Compelling Home Remedies” and “More Compelling Remedies.” Other readers who would like copies should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order for each report to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title(s) or print an order form off my Web site at www.AskDrGottMD.com.
